APEC SOM3: Enhancing connection for TFA implementation

Guest speakers run panel discussion in the workshop. Photo: Thanh Thuy

There are nearly 100 delegates that are experts in trade facilitation field come from different international organisations such as: World trade organisation (WTO), World Customs Organisation (WCO), United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD); Customs experts and ministries related to border management that came from member economies, organisations, enterprises representing for private sector.

This workshop is great opportunities to discuss on related issues including Status quo of WTO TFA implementation in the world, region and in some of the economies’ members; Measures for engagement of Customs Administration and other Border Agencies in Trade Facilitation; Strategies for-fostering private sector participation in the TFA implementation process; sharing expectation and experience of collaboration in the National Trade Facilitation Committees. Moreover, through the workshop, seeking technical assistance and capacity building on implementing special Agreements for developing economies; Promoting cooperation and the connection between Customs – Customs in Asia – Pacific region in order to enhance the role of regional Customs authorities in forwarding to the achievement of the Bogor on Trade Facilitation.

In the welcome speech, Deputy Director General - General Department of Vietnam Customs, Mr. Vu Ngoc Anh stressed: “Successful implementation of the TFA will require collaboration between and among the public and private-sectors, Government Agencies, Customs Administrations and WTO Members with international/regional development partners.”

Besides that, stakeholders could have a chance to update information, share experiences, identify challenges and discuss solutions, develop action plans for TFA implementation of APEC economies member. With the aim to further strengthen the connection and contribute the responsibilities of agencies and stakeholders in the implementation of the Agreement.

Deputy Director General Vu Ngoc Anh hoped that all of the delegates would take this opportunity to have an active discussion for the best and appropriate measures to implement the TFA in your respective economies.

As known that, this workshop is one of the important activities of SCCP in related meetings of SOM3.Vietnam Customs held the successful workshop will contribute to the achievement and prove the role in the SCCP efficiency as well as the general success of APEC Vietnam 2017.